Soupapias
Soupapias are crispy, stuffed fried pastries filled with seasoned ground beef and cheese, perfect as a savory snack or appetizer for gatherings and family meals.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Knead together flour and shortening until well combined.
- Add baking powder and salt to the flour mixture.
- Gradually knead in warm water, 1/2 cup at a time, until you have a smooth, stretchy dough.
- You may need a bit more water to achieve the right consistency.
- Let the dough rest for 1 hour to develop the knead texture.
- While the dough rests, brown ground beef in a skillet, then drain and set aside.
- Chop tomato, lettuce, and onion; place each in small bowls for garnishes.
- Separate the rested dough into 5 equal portions.
- Roll out each portion to about 1/4 inch thick.
- Place a small amount of ground beef and cheese on one half of each rolled dough circle.
- Fold the other half over and pinch tightly to seal.
- Deep fry each stuffed pastry until golden brown.
- Repeat with remaining dough portions.
- Garnish with chopped vegetables and serve hot.
Tips & Substitutions
To achieve the best texture, ensure your dough is well-kneaded and rested for at least an hour. If you don't have shortening, you can substitute with an equal amount of butter or vegetable oil. For a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños to the ground beef mixture. You can also experiment with different cheeses, such as Monterey Jack or cheddar, for variations in flavor. Consider pairing these with Mexican recipes for a full meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your Soupapias hot, garnished with chopped tomatoes, lettuce, onions, and a dollop of sour cream. They pair wonderfully with sides like Rice And Black Beans or a refreshing salad. For a delightful twist, serve alongside Pauline'S Taco Soup for a comforting meal. These can also be a fun addition to a party platter with various dipping sauces.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftover Soupapias in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through. For a crispier texture, you can also reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, turning occasionally until warmed and crispy again.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Soupapias contains roughly 279 calories, with 5g protein, 39g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (60% of the Daily Value) and calcium (20% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A and iron. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1139mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the dough in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the dough a day ahead. After kneading, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate. Allow it to come to room temperature before rolling and frying to ensure it maintains its elasticity.
What can I use instead of ground beef?
You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option. Just ensure you season it well to enhance the flavors, as different meats can vary in taste.
Can I bake the Soupapias instead of frying them?
Yes, you can bake the Soupapias for a healthier alternative. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C), place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper, and bake for about 20-25 minutes or until golden brown, flipping halfway through for even cooking.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).